2012 NAPPA Awards: Books

Infants

Highlights HelloPublished by Highlights for Children Inc., ages infants-age 2, $34.44 annuallyGold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: What a fabulous new idea! A magazine just for your baby with sturdy bright pages that are full of listening pleasure and great possibilities for adult-child interaction. BUY IT

Over The Moon: The Broadway Lullaby ProjectBy Karen Katz, The Broadway Lullaby Project, infants-age 3, $18.98Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: A book and CD combination, the CD will amaze as each lullaby is sung by a Broadway talent. Adults will be as charmed as their little ones in this beautiful collection. There’s something for everyone. The accompanying hardback book is illustrated by a variety of illustrators. BUY IT

Stinky Feet StewWritten and Illustrated by Beth Capodanno, infants-age 8, $12.99Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: A busy little boy has stinky feet from his playing adventures. His mom makes bath time fun by making “stinky feet stew” with the little boy as the main ingredient. Simple rhyme accompanied by stark, graffiti-like text and illustrations convey a feeling of a busy boy in action. BUY IT

18 Months

Andrew Drew and DrewBy Barney Saltzburg, Abrams Books, ages 18 months-8 years, $15.95Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it:Through a series of folds and unfolds, readers will follow along as Andrew doodles and noodles. Andrew’s lines lead to his imaginings. The illustrations are realistic and childlike. Charming and delightful. BUY IT

Baby Bear Sees BlueBy Ashley Wolff, Simon & Schuster, ages 18 months-8 years, $16.99Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it:Baby bear explores the many colors of his forest home with mama bear. The gorgeous illustrations were made by printing linoleum blocks in black and then hand-coloring them with watercolor. BUY IT

MooBy Matthew Van Fleet and Brian Stanton, Simon & Schuster, ages 18 months-8 years, $16.99Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Moo, cock-a-doodle-doo, oink, cluck, and more as readers and listeners pull, learn, and smile with this interactive treasure that introduces barnyard animals. There are pop-ups, pull outs, and spots to feel in this book that is meant to be enjoyed time and time again. BUY IT

Age 2

Slither Slide, What's Outside?By Simon Shapiro , Sheryl Shapiro and Nora Hilb, illustrated by Nora Hilb, Annick Press Ltd., ages 2-4, $8.95Honors WinnerWhy the judges liked it: This book presents cute rhymes about various sounds and sights of the four seasons as seen through the perspective of two young children at play. Photographs supplement the text and illustrations giving authenticity to the whimsical nature of the book. BUY IT

Up Dog/Up CatBy Hazel Hutchins, illustrated by Fanny, Annick Press Ltd., ages 2-5, $6.95Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: A playful dog is the star in this board book that showcases canine antics and the word “up.” It’s sure to be a big hit with dog lovers. For feline fans, check out Up Cat. BUY IT

If All the Animals Came InsideBy Eric Pinder and Marc Brown, Hachette Book Group, ages 3-5, $16.99Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Catchy rhyme pattern is accompanied by collage artwork; I liked how Brown included photographs with his playful illustrations. A young boy imagines the terrible mess animals would make if they were allowed in his house. Very fun. BUY IT

All the Awake AnimalsBy Crescent Dragonwagon, illustrated by David McPhail, Hachette Book Group, ages 3-6, $16.99Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it:A lullaby of animals, in alphabetical order, sets the stage for slumber in this sweet story that’s packed full of information to be enjoyed for many nights and years. BUY IT

1-2-3 PeasBy Keith Baker, Simon & Schuster, ages 3-8, $16.99Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Busy peas work their way through the alphabet with a variety of activities as they splash, dance, beep, sing, and more. This counting book is perfect for celebrating the 100th day of school. BUY IT

A World of Food: Discover Magical Lands Made of Things You Can Eat!By Carl Warner, Abrams Books for Young Readers, ages 3-8, $17.95Honors WinnerWhy the judges liked it: If all the world were made of food…Carl Werner presents his photographs of miniature landscapes made of food of a certain color. The last layout is multi-colored. Playful rhyming text accompanies the fantastical worlds of food. I love that this book is dedicated to all children who love to play with their food. BUY IT

Crafty ChloeBy Kelly DiPucchio, illustrated by Heather Ross, Simon & Schuster, ages 3-8, $16.99Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Chloe might not excel at sports, dance or video games, but she’s got mad skills as a crafter. The spunky heroine uses those talents when presented with the problem of finding the perfect birthday present for her best friend, Emma. Written . BUY IT

Creepy CarrotsBy Aaron Reynolds, illustrated by Peter Brown, Simon & Schuster, ages 3-8, $16.99Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Jasper Rabbit loves carrots from Crackenhopper Field. He greedily takes as many carrots as he wants until creepy carrots start following him around. He builds a fence to keep the carrots away from him. In the end, the reader learns that the carrots have been plotting all along to keep Jasper away from them. Very clever and funny with creepy, colorful illustrations. BUY IT

Lola's FandangoBy Anna Witte and Micha Archer, Barefoot Books, ages 3-8, $16.99Why the judges liked it: A book and CD combination that is sure to satisfy. It’s the story of individuality and includes cultural notes about flamenco dancing, a Spanish glossary, and a CD that is accompanied by original flamenco music. BUY IT

Monster Mash by David CatrowBy David Catrow, Scholastic Books, ages 3-8, $16.99Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: A rollicking, rocking salute to the 1960s classic song, and it’s sure to catch on like a flash. So do the Mash! The Monster Mash! BUY IT

Over in the Forest: Come and Take a PeekBy Marianne Berkes, illustrated by Jill Dubin, Dawn Publications, ages 3-8, $8.95Honors WinnerWhy the judges liked it: The text can be sung to “Over in the Meadow.” Learn about forest animals and their habitat. The book shares their baby names and their main action. It also shares some facts and activity ideas. The illustrations are paper cut-outs. BUY IT

Surfer ChickBy Kristy Dempsey, Illustrated by Henry Cole, Abrams Books for Young Readers, ages 3-8, $16.95Honors WinnerWhy the judges liked it: A surfer father teaches his young chick daughter how to surf and, after a few wipeouts, she has one gnarly adventure. Surf’s up! BUY IT

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris LessmoreBy William Joyce, Simon & Schuster, ages 3-8, $17.99Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Beautifully and fantastically illustrated, it tells the story of how Mr. Lessmore escapes tragedy by opening a book and turning a page. This is a tribute to book lovers everywhere. BUY IT

The Monsters' MonsterBy Patrick McDonnell, Hachette Book Group, ages 3-8, $16.99Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Very cute book about little monsters who want so very badly to be bad. They create a big monster who is anything but bad; in the end, they learn to be thankful for just being. Funny and delightful. BUY IT

Arlo Needs GlassesBy Barney Salzberg, Workman Publishing, ages 3 & up, $15.95Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it:Arlo the dog loves to play catch; but one day, he can’t see the ball! Readers can interact with Arlo as he goes to get his eyesight checked and buys glasses. This is a clever and fun pop-up book. BUY IT

Healthy Foods from A to Z /Comida sana de la A a la Zby Stephanie Maze and Renee Comet, Moonstone Press, ages 3 & up, $15.95Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: This bilingual picture books features healthy foods labeled in Spanish and English. Each letter layout features photographs of healthy foods; in the center of each page is a creative face made out of the various foods items. Young readers can be inspired to make their own health food faces. The books also provides activities and food facts. BUY IT

My Dog! A Kids' Guide to Keeping a Happy & Healthy PetBy Michael J. Rosen, Workman Publishing, ages 3 & up, $13.95Honors WinnerWhy the judges liked it: This is the complete resource for every child who has or wants a dog describing dogs, training, care, and a field guide for identifying neighborhood dogs. The spiral-bound handbook has an index for zeroing in on information and tabs for quick access on main topics. BUY IT

Age 4

Red Knit Cap GirlBy Naoko Stoop, Hachette Book Group, ages 4-6, $15.99Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: With the help of her animal friend, Red Knit Cap Girl seeks to meet the moon. She realizes the importance of appreciating quiet and solitude. The most striking feature of this book is the beautiful illustrations, which were originally painted on wood. The art is minimal, reflective of an Asian style; newspaper cutouts are used for the lanterns. Unique. BUY IT

Here Come the Girl Scouts!: The Amazing All-True Story of Juliette 'Daisy' Gordon Low and Her Great Adventureby Shana Corey, illustrated by Hadley Hooper, Scholastic Books, ages 4-8, $17.99Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: The Amazing All-true Story of Founder Daisy Gordon Low and Her Great Adventure” is picture book biography of Juliette Gordon Low, the inspiring woman who had an inspired idea—the Girl Scouts. A fabulous read for all Girl Scouts and adventurous girls everywhere and just in time for the 100th anniversary of the Girl Scouts. BUY IT

Age 5

Show Me a Story: 40 Craft Projects and Activities to Spark Children's StorytellingBy Emily K. Neuburgerm Storey Publishing, ages 5-12, $16.95Honors WinnerWhy the judges liked it: The author shares 40 ideas, games, and activities to get kids to tap into their imaginations. The instructions are easy to follow and accompanied by colorful photographs. Neuburger also provides teaching tips and extension activities. This is a great guide for parents who want to encourage their children’s storytelling abilities. BUY IT

Age 6

Stella Batts Needs a New NameBy Courtney Sheinmel and Jennifer Bell, Sleeping Bear Press, ages 6-8, $5.99Honors WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Stella Batts is a new generation’s Ramona Quimby. This spunky heroine starts her writing career with this autobiography. Told in first person, this book describes Stella’s trials and tribulations as she seeks to change her name after a boy in class called her “Smella.” BUY IT

Twice as Good: The Story of William Powell and Clearview, the Only Golf Course Designed, Built, and Owned by an African AmericanBy Richard Michelson, illustrated by Eric Velasquez, Sleeping Bear Press, ages 6-10, $16.95Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Young Willie Powell loved golf at a time when the sport was denied to African-Americans. He learned he had to be “twice as good” as white players. He eventually overcame his challenges by building his own golf course. This is an inspirational story of a young man’s perseverance. BUY IT

T is for Titanic: A Titanic AlphabetBy Michael Shoulders and Debbie Shoulders, illustrated by Gijsbert van Frankenhuyzen, Sleeping Bear Press, ages 6-15, $17.95Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: An alphabetical presentation of the Titanic for the 100th year anniversary of the compelling tragedy. Fascinating facts are presented in brief poems and lengthier expository text, making this bi-level presentation a perfect book for the entire family to share. BUY IT

Age 7

Those Rebels, John & TomBy Barbara Kerley, Illustrated by Edwin Fotheringham, Scholastic Books, ages 7-10, $17.99Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: John and Tom were complete opposites; yet they shared a deep commitment for American independence from Great Britain. This picture book biography tells the story of how an unlikely friendship between John Adams and Thomas Jefferson turned into a great partnership. The author uses direct quotes whenever possible, and the illustrations cleverly set the colonial scene. BUY IT

Age 8

Geeks, Girls, and Secret IdentitiesBy Mike Jung, illustrated by Mike Maihack, Scholastic Books, ages 8-12, $16.99Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Vincent Wu is obsessed with Captain Stupendous. When he discovers that his hero’s secret identity is Polly Winnicott, his crush, he leads his friends in a campaign to prepare her for battle against Professor Mayhem. (He’s having a harder time getting the courage to ask her out on a date.) The protagonist of this story is Asian-American. It’s funny, sci-fi, fantastical, and full of teen drama. BUY IT

Glory Be By Augusta Scattergood, Scholastic Books, Ages 8-12, $16.99Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: August Scattergood takes us back in time to 1964 in Mississippi and provides a portrait of America and its struggle for civil rights through 11-year-old Glory, an opinionated and believable character. BUY IT

The Giant and How He Humbugged AmericaBy Jim Murphy, Scholastic Books, ages 8-12, $19.99Honors WinnerWhy the judges liked it: This is a nonfictional account of the Cardiff Giant, the story behind the lore and the scam. Historical photographs supplement the text. BUY IT

WonderBy R.J. Palacio, Random House Children's Books (Knopf Books for Young Readers), ages 8-12, $15.99Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: August was born with a facial deformity and had numerous surgeries, which required him to be home-schooled. But this year, he’ll attend a school and be the target for bullies and mean comments. This is a satisfying and emotional novel to read aloud, ponder and discuss. BUY IT

Age 9

The Mighty Miss MaloneBy Christopher Paul Curtis, Random House Children's Books (Wendy Lamb Books), ages 9-12, $15.99Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: The Malone family perseveres despite the racism, poverty and other hardships of the Great Depression. Deza Malone’s father is forced to leave the family to seek work. Deza proves to be a heroine in her determination to reunite her family. BUY IT

The Secret TreeBy Natalie Standiford, Scholastic Books, ages 9-12, $16.99Honors WinnerWhy the judges liked it: This is a coming-of-age story about Minty trying to hang on to her friendship with Paz. She befriends Raymond, the new boy in town. They seek to solve the mysteries held by a tree that’s filled with the town’s secrets. BUY IT

Black & WhiteBy Larry Dane Brimner, Boyds Mills Press, ages 9-15, $16.95Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Reverend Shuttlesworth used nonviolent actions as he led the civil rights struggle for equality in Birmingham, Ala. Connor was backed by the Ku Klux Klan. This photo-essay is a fascinating nonfiction account of both men and their confrontation. Written by BUY IT

Discovery Girls MagazineDiscovery Girls Inc, ages 9-15, $4.95Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Magazines are a great way to encourage reading and this book is a perfect match for girls ages 8 and up. It’s packed full of interesting articles to help girls explore their thinking and improve their relationships as they see how similar they are and explore the differences of others in their lives. Visit their website for a plethora of great information! BUY IT

Frederick Douglass for Kids: His Life and Times with 21 ActivitiesBy Nancy I. Sanders, Chicago Review Press, ages 9-15, $16.95Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Readers will learn all about Frederick Douglass from birth to African-American hero. The author shares photographs, timelines, text boxes with relevant facts, and activity ideas such as cooking a meal similar to the one Douglass had with John Brown. This is a great resource. BUY IT

Scholastic Discover More: TechnologyBy Clive Gifford, Scholastic Books, ages 9-15, $15.99Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: What a great resource for learning about technology. The book describes various gadgets and gizmos and investigates the science behind technology. Great graphics, captions, and side texts complement the main texts. Readers will have a lot of information at their fingertips. BUY IT

The Encyclopedia of MeBy Karen Rivers, Scholastic Books, ages 9-15, $16.99Honors WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Tink Aaron-Martin describes middle school angst in the form of encyclopedic entries from A to Z. BUY IT

The False PrinceBy Jennifer A. Nielsen, Scholastic Books, ages 9-15, $17.99Silver WinnerWhy the judges liked it: When war divides a kingdom, four orphans are recruited to play the puppet-prince. This is an action fantasy full of political intrigue. BUY IT

The Moon Over High StreetBy Natalie Babbitt, Scholastic Books, ages 9-15, $15.95Honors WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Mr. Boulderwall, a millionaire, wonders who he should leave his fortune and his business to and a chance encounter with Joe Casimir provides him with the necessary answers, but will Joe find answers to his own questions? BUY IT

Wings of Fire Book One: The Dragonet ProphecyBy Tui T. Sutherland, Scholastic Books, ages 9-15, $16.99Honors WinnerWhy the judges liked it: This is getting a lot of attention for redefining middle grade fantasy fiction. It is a world of dragons, intrigue, and prophecies. According to the prophecy, five dragonets are destined to end the conflict. The story is told from the perspective of Clay, one of the five dragonets. BUY IT

All Ages

Bon Appétit! The Delciious Life of Julia ChildBy Jessie Hartland, Schwartz & Wade Books (Random House Children's Books), all ages, $17.99Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Your budding gourmet cook will learn about this trailblazing chef in a picture book biography. There’s an abundance of interesting tidbits about Julia, the woman who brought French cooking into American homes. BUY IT

Star Wars: A Galactic Pop-up Adventure By Matthew Reinhart, Scholastic Books, all ages, $36.99Honors WinnerWhy the judges liked it: Reinhart, a renowned paper engineer (which is an awesome job title), creates a wonderfully creative and artistic pop-up book with working lightsabers, pull tabs, colorful visuals, and more. It explores various aspects from the series including characters, stories, tools, settings, etc. The book is a must-have for fans. BUY IT

World AtlasBy Nick Crane, illustrated by David Dean, Barefoot Books, all ages, $19.99Gold WinnerWhy the judges liked it: This gorgeous atlas presentation has lift-up spots and pull-open pages. The entire family will want to pore over each page again and again. Bright, vibrant and immensely entertaining and informative! BUY IT